OVIDY Karuru's sister Charity has opened up on how the former Warriors' star shaped her budding football career, as she makes waves at FC Platinum Royals.
As if to follow a biblical star, Charity Karuru has been retracing the footsteps of her industrious brother who was a shining star in and out of Zimbabwe.
Ovidy Karuru remains one of the top attackers that graced the domestic scene before breaking into Europe and then South Africa's DStv Premiership.
The 34-year-old started his career at Masvingo United before decent stints in France and Germany.
He joined the South African league where he made a mark starting at Kaizer Chiefs from 2014 to 2016.
After a spell in the Soweto giants’ books, he later joined Amazulu, Stellenbosch and Black Leopards in that order.
Although his whereabouts have not been clear since leaving Black Leopards in July 2021, Ovidy's influence has been felt through his free scoring sister, Charity.
The 28-year-old female forward can't stop scoring for the FC Platinum Royals, having scored 14 goals in 14 matches, plus 6 assists under her belt.
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And with Zimbabwe back in international football, Charity Karuru is sure to be considered for a place in the Mighty Warriors squad.
The lanky striker credits her success so far to Ovidy, who has been her main inspiration.
"Ovidy has been giving me football equipment like football boots, full kits from his clubs at that moment. That’s inspiring when you have family behind you,” she said.
"Our relationship is quite good because I follow his steps. He is the example and someone I emulate. We do understand each other a lot and he has always accommodated while helping me to be the best. I know I can do well for my club and country.
"I started playing soccer in the streets with little boys while my brothers were using the bigger pitch with the big boys. I then joined an academy (Charose) at the age of 9.
"The academy groomed me so well and at the age of 12 l then joined a senior team football club (Masvingo Queens). Masvingo Queens handed me my debut into a professional league," she said.
Charity Karuru added that working with Sithethelelwe 'Kwinji 15' Sibanda has brought a new dimension to her style of play.
"Working with Kwinji 15 has been marvelous. She's good when it comes to nurturing talent.
"I must admit that a lot of players are improving day in day out including myself, l have been improving a lot and still learning from her," Karuru added.